Thanks to Charlie Bradford answering the Lord’s calling on his life, thousands of children are not just receiving Christmas presents, but they are also feeling the love of God.
68
THE ROAD
A SUN-SOAKED GETAWAY
When you cannot stand the gray chill of winter for another minute, it is time to book a trip to the Tampa/St. Petersburg area of Florida for a long weekend away.
What should you buy for friends and loved ones this season? Look no further than the shops right around you.
PHOTO BY KELSEA SCHAFER
PHOTO BY UNTOLD IMAGERY
EDITORIAL
Anna Grace Moore
Rachel Raiford
Mackenzee Simms
Andrew Simonson
Noah Wortham
CONTRIBUTORS
Jennifer Combs
Daniel Dennis
Lindsay Dyess
Butch Oglesby
Blair Ramsey
Christiana Roussel
Kelsea Schafer
DESIGN
Sydney Allen
Jamie Dawkins
Rowan Futrell
Connor Martin-Lively
MARKETING
Evann Campbell
Octavia Campbell
Rachel Henderson
Rhett McCreight
Viridiana Romero
ADMINISTRATION
Mary Jo Eskridge
Alec Etheredge
Stacey Meadows
Lauren Morris
Kayla Reeves
Leslie Reeves
Brittany Schofield
Daniel Dennis, Photographer
Daniel is the co-founder and co-owner of Untold Imagery. He’s been practicing photography for many years, but he started pursuing it professionally in 2020. Daniel enjoys being able to compose an image in his mind and seeing it come to fruition through perfect lighting and composition. His primary focuses with photography are travel, food and branding. To learn more about Untold Imagery, follow the business on Instagram at @untold_imagery or visit untoldimagery.com.
Lindsay Dyess, Writer
Lindsay Dyess is the Arts Education Director and Business Manager for the Shelby County Arts Council. She originally started as a volunteer in 2013 and was hired full-time in 2019. Lindsay oversees all of the arts and music education classes, co-curates gallery exhibits and supports the dayto-day business of the non-profit. As a visual artist by trade, Lindsay enjoys teaching children and adult classes, such as printmaking and punch needle fiber arts, in her spare time.
Blair Ramsey, Photographer
Blair is a Vestavia Hills-based photographer whose company, Southern Intrigue Photography, specializes in sports action, portrait and commercial images. Blair has two sons, Cooper and Cameron, who have both had the privilege of being Auburn cheerleaders. Blair’s work can be found at southernintriguephotography.com, on Instagram @southernintriguephotography and Facebook @southernintrigue.
Kelsea Schafer, Photographer
Kelsea is a student at Hoover High School. She lives in Hoover with her family and two dogs, Fendi and Riley. When not in class, she is behind the camera, shooting sports, events or senior portraits wherever possible while running Kelsea Schafer Photography. During her free time, she is often at Lewis Smith Lake, enjoying all things sun, boating and wake surfing with her family and friends.
Shelby Living Magazine is published bi-monthly by Shelby County Newspapers Inc., P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051. Shelby Living Magazine is a registered trademark. All contents herein are the sole property of Shelby County Newspapers Inc. [the Publisher]. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher. Please address all correspondence (including but not limited to letters, story ideas and requests to reprint materials) to: Editor, Shelby Living Magazine , P.O. Box 947, Columbiana, AL 35051.
Shelby Living Magazine is mailed to select households throughout Shelby County, and a limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Please visit ShelbyLiving.com for a list of those locations. Subscriptions are available at a rate of $14.95 plus tax for one year by visiting ShelbyLiving.com or calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 532.
Advertising inquiries may be made by emailing advertise@ShelbyLiving.com, or by calling (205) 669-3131, ext. 536.
COVER
Answering the Call
Bikes 4 Kids is blessing children in need this holiday season.
EEvery year, I think to myself, “They can’t possibly put this year on glasses!” And, every year, I’m wrong. I’m not sure whether it’s the friend group getting back together or the onset of new traditions that excites me the most on New Year’s Eve.
One thing I do know, however, is I always reflect on the year’s highs and lows, giving thanks to the people who made my year so special. More often than not, I find myself thanking you, readers, and our wonderful community.
One of the most meaningful stories I wrote this year was in Shelby Living’s January/February issue titled, “Truth in Vivid Color.” Hailey Mason’s mother, Tinisha Malone, was brutally murdered when Hailey was a little girl, and for the last 20 years, the case has gone unsolved. Hailey told me while she may never receive justice for her mother, she was not going to let her grief consume her. Instead, she transformed her mourning into action—writing “A is for Arrington,” the first in a children’s book series that honors heroes of color just like Tinisha.
Interviewing Hailey, I learned that everyone walks through tragedy at some point during his life. While we cannot control what happens to us, we can control how we respond.
This story set the precedent for the rest of my writing—on a deeper level, my life—for the following issues. Each time I struggled with feeling depressed or feeling anxious, each time I lamented the bad things that happened this year, I was reminded of Hailey and her story—turning sadness into purpose.
Reflecting on this past year, I realized that with every person I interviewed, I learned something new. Each story I wrote taught me something about myself, and more importantly, how I can become a better version of myself—often by modeling the character of those whose stories I share with you all.
In this issue, you all will read stories from local artist Chris Cruz, Equip founder Blake Huynh, The Italian Cookie Company founder Al Ruffino, local residents Forrest and Brook Jordan and Bikes 4 Kids founder Charlie Bradford. Each story is different and what I believe will remind each of you that with a new year comes new goals, new dreams, new traditions and above all, new opportunities to learn and grow—to become a better version of yourself.
My hope is that whatever you may learn in the coming year, you will share with me as I share our community’s stories with the world.
Sincerely,
Photo by Kelsea Schafer Design by Connor Martin-Lively
“THE QUESTION
”
Who has the best tacos in Shelby County?
Taqueria Garibaldi’s ALL DAY
-Logan Sprayberry
Tacos El Paisano in Chelsea! Handmade corn tortillas truly authentic
-Deon Zambrano
Dos Botellas Mexican Restaurant in Chelsea!
-Charlie Bradford
El Pastorcito Taco Truck in Harpersville!
-Seth Miller
El Patrón Mexican Restaurant in Inverness!
-J Francisco Angel
Taqueria Las Garzas 280 Hwy! It’s my Taco Tuesday “go to!” (and their tortas, burritos and shrimp ceviche are all great too!)
-Chris Solomon
Blue Agave
-Jeannie Wortham
Rosario’s in Inverness (Home Depot parking lot)
-Taryn Baucom
@shelbylivingmagazine
Tag us in your Shelby County photos on Instagram, and we’ll pick our favorites to regram and publish on this page in each issue.
@slicemontevallo
What an awesome day for some LIVE music on the patio! Come join us beginning at 6pm, for a performance by the band Twelve, right here at Slice Montevallo!
They’re here to get the weekend started, so come join us for plenty of food, drinks, entertainment, and extended happy hour!
If you haven’t tried our Fall Drink Menu, now is the time! Come join us for lunch or dinner! @slicemontevallo @bliss.by.bailey
@rachel.kressig wedding was a dream!
Dreammmyy little golden blonde! @britthendersonartistry
HOLIDAY PARADES
‘Tis the season to be jolly! Look out for Shelby County holiday parades to process through a town near you. Check each city’s website for more information.
Alabaster: Dec. 7, 10 a.m., Highway 31 South
Calera: Dec. 7, 6 p.m., Highway 31 Calera
Chelsea: Dec. 21, 10 a.m., Chelsea Middle School to Winn-Dixie
The Birmingham Bulls are back again this season! To purchase tickets, learn more about the Southern Professional Hockey League or for general information, visit bullshockey. net. Those interested in public skating can visit pelhamciviccomplex.com/1065/ public-skating.
NOV. 29-DEC. 24
Christmas Tree Farm
9 A.M.-DARK Old Baker Farm
The choose-and-cut Christmas Tree Farm is back at Old Baker Farm. Customers will not only be able to pick their favorite trees from the farm, but they will also get to sample complimentary hot apple cider and candy canes, too. Attendees can take a hayride through the Christmas trees as well. Types of trees available include Virginia Pines, Leyland Cypress, Carolina Sapphire, Arizona Sapphire, Red Cedars and Fraser Firs. The fee for scale of trees is $30 and up, depending on type and size of tree. Visit oldbakerfarm.com/pages/christmas-tree-farm for more information.
AROUND TOWN
NOV. 2
Mountain Brook FOP 5K Pig Run and One-Mile Fun Run
3785 Jackson Boulevard
NOV. 7
Jazz Band Concert
Brock Recital Hall at Samford University
NOV. 7
Homewood Holiday Open House
Downtown Homewood
NOV. 8
Dunn’s Turkey Drop Chase Bank
3748 Lorna Rd
NOV. 10
Academy of the Arts Recitals
Brock Recital Hall at Samford University
NOV. 15
Big Ideas Book Club
Homewood Public Library
NOV. 15
Sarah Gilliland, Author of Perfect Day Alabama Presented by the Homewood Public Library
Alys Stephens Center – Jemison Concert Hall at UAB
NOV. 28
Sam Lapidus Montclair Run
Levite Jewish Community Center
DEC. 3
Vestavia Hills’ Tree Lighting Festival
Vestavia Hills City Hall
DEC. 5
Hanging of the Green & Lighting of the Way
Samford University
DEC. 5
Mountain Brook Village Holiday Open House
Mountain Brook Village
DEC. 7
Breakfast with Santa Samford University
DEC. 8
Vestavia Hills Holiday Parade & Party in the Park
NOV. 30 | DEC. 7 & 14
Christmas at the Station
10 A.M. & 1 P.M. Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
The whole family will love Christmas at the Station! Families will enjoy a 45-minute-long train ride. Santa Claus will be available for photos on the museum grounds, too. All of these wondrous activities are included in ticket purchase prices. A vendor market with holiday gifts for sale will be open for shopping during the daytime. Purchase tickets and learn more information at hodrrm. org.
Holiday Artist Market
9 A.M.-3 P.M.
Shelby County Arts Center 105 West College Street
Showcasing local artists’ work, the Shelby County Arts Council’s annual holiday artist market is back this December! Peruse vendors selling handmade items including paintings, pottery, woodwork, fiber art, photography, Christmas ornaments and more. Learn more about this annual market at shelbycountyartscouncil.com/ annual-holiday-artist-market/.
DEC. 10-14
Colonial Christmas Lunches and Tours
10:30 A.M.-1 P.M. OR NOON-2:30 P.M. American Village
American Village offers a one-of-a-kind experience each Christmas season, allowing customers to eat, drink and be merry with patriots of the past, including Mrs. Eliza Hamilton. Attendees will learn about Christmas traditions in the 18th Century and will enjoy the 188-acre campus adorned in Christmas décor. Pre-reservations are required. Tickets are $40 per person. Admission includes lunch, a guided tour and time to explore American Village firsthand, too. To order tickets, call (205) 665-3535 ext. 1031 or visit americanvillage.org/colonialchristmas-lunch-tour/.
ARTS CULTURE&
PAINTING IT FORWARD
Chris Cruz believes the best way to “be the change” is to share your talent with the world.
BY ANNA GRACE MOORE
KELSEA SCHAFER
PHOTOS BY
AA window into the soul, art is a reflection of the heart’s innermost desires. To author such expressiveness is to value the relationship paint has to emotion–a brisk dance between brush and board.
Chris Cruz’s fascination with art has only ever grown as she did, prompting her to ask questions such as “Why not?” Neither money nor lack of resources stopped her from pursuing her dream.
Now, she is empowering other creative minds, igniting within them the courage to create.
A native of Queens, New York, Chris moved to Bayamon, Puerto Rico, with her family when her father relocated for work. Growing up in Latin culture, Chris was immersed in such a colorful culture–rich in history and art.
“My mother said she never had a need to buy me toys because I could take an orange peel and a bottle cap and make something out of it,” she says. “I was exposed to a lot of art–very colorful art. Everybody paints and draws. The music is Latin music, and it’s very powerful. I was always ‘awake’ to create.”
After her father retired, Chris’ family moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, where she stayed for 40 years during which time she met her husband, Tony, and started their family together. As a stayat-home mom, Chris found time to be a troubling thing if not something tangible in her hands.
She started working part-time in her neighbor’s arts and crafts store, working to earn money for art supplies and so she could take classes. Chris’
neighbor generously blessed her, allowing her to study under her tutelage.
Soon, Chris could finally scratch her insatiable itch to create; thus, her painting career began. She remembers the first “real” piece she ever created–a wooden coat rack painted in oils and sanded around the edges for a more “rustic” look.
That was in 1987. Today, it hangs in her laundry room as a reminder of her humble beginnings.
In 1993, just a few short years after Chris started painting commissions for her friends, she got her big break. Her neighbor was moving and closing her store, but not before blessing Chris with the means necessary to jumpstart her entrepreneurial dreams.
“On a Sunday morning, I opened up the front door, and there were two huge boxes of supplies with a note on it that said, ‘There’s no excuse for you not to go into business for yourself.’ That’s what started it all,” Chris says, smiling.
Not long after, Chris came across a vacant space that was perfect for her to open up shop. She officially opened her own arts and crafts store, The Craft Club, in 1993, selling her artwork, supplies and even teaching classes–her very favorite thing to do.
The Craft Club’s popularity grew like wildfire as people came from all over to take classes not necessarily because Chris is a talented artist, but because she encourages others to believe in their God-given abilities and try something new.
“People always say, ‘You painted that in five minutes!’ It took me 30 years to paint that in five minutes,” Chris says, chuckling.
Every time she would teach a class, Chris would show her students how to paint a simple subject such as a cardinal or a Monarch butterfly–she would then keep her own originals and give them to people who have made a positive impact in her own life.
“I feel that God has a mission for me to do something with my creativity,” she says. “It’s not for me to keep. I need to spread it,
so people can have a little part of that. It’s just like a force that drives me to do that.”
Little did she realize how much of a ripple effect she was creating. Students would come into her classes who had lost their loved ones or who had just received terrible health diagnoses.
Yet, they would all leave feeling a little lighter with a pep in their step. Chris does not take credit for their success, nor does she believe she is the reason they left feeling happier.
She attributes these wonderful outcomes to the Lord and His faithfulness, as evident in her own artistic journey.
“I feel that sharing your art should be the most important thing as an artist,” Chris says.
Paintings are the projection of an artist’s feelings–her catharsis plastered onto a blank canvas, colored with the hues of her heightened emotions. In each, Chris says one can see the intensity in the brush strokes and texture, and if one looks a little more closely, she can see exactly how this medley of techniques yields a story.
It is this visual storytelling that Chris says connects an artist’s shared humanity with the world and helps everyone heal. Everybody endures trials
in her lifetime.
What makes her worth remembering is not her suffering; rather, it is how she painted her struggle into her story.
Eight years after the birth of her business, Chris began enduring some severe health issues and made the decision to close The Craft Club. While
she still loved to paint and could continue teaching sporadically, it was not feasible for her to keep the doors open.
She held a celebratory open house, offering all of her supplies for $10 each or less. All of Chris’ students came to wish her well and buy some supplies, completely cleaning her out of stock.
They all even helped clean her store from sweeping floors to hauling away slabs of stone, leaving the empty building looking brand new.
“I never had to put a dime into my store, and if it wasn’t for those people coming to my store, I wouldn’t have had all those products,” Chris says. “In a way, they were also part of that store.”
Chris believes that if it were not for her neighbor blessing her with art classes and supplies, she may never have had the opportunity to open up her own business, much less pursue a passion she loved. She wanted to pay that blessing forward ten-fold, and to this day, it remains one of her fondest memories.
Chris and Tony made the jump to the Yellowhammer State less than a decade ago to be closer to family as they entered a new chapter in their lives. Chris quickly joined as many art groups as she could and now teaches at Alabama Art
Chris Cruz is a Golden Paint and Silver Brushes-certified instructor. As one of only 200 worldwide, Chris values being able to share such a love for creativity with other people. Those interested in following her career or learning more about classes can follow her on Instagram (@chriscruzdesigns).
Chris Cruz Art
Supply, the Shelby County Arts Council and the Alabaster, Chelsea, Heardmont, Trussville and Columbiana Senior Centers.
Not only is she a member of the Mountain Brook Art Association and the Middle Tennessee Artists group, but she also teaches at conventions in Tennessee, Georgia and Florida.
Although her artwork has become known across the Southeast, Chris says she values affordability and only creates originals, never prints. She wants her customers, no matter their income, to be able to afford an original work of art–something that by societal standards can cost thousands of dollars.
Not Chris Cruz’s art, however.
“I had Miss Columbiana come to my booth one day and say, ‘I want to buy that piece,’” Chris says. “She said, ‘This is my first, original painting, and when I go to college, I am going to hang it in my dorm!’ Doesn’t that make you feel good? That’s my reward.”
When asked why she prices her art so well, Chris simply replies that she “can’t take it with her to Heaven.” For her, being in the art business was never about the money.
It has and will always be about sharing her talent with which God has blessed her and using it to
spread love and joy to other people–those who need it most in life. If through her ministry Chris Cruz can paint a better world, she’ll start by picking up a paintbrush, asking, ‘Why not?’
To view or purchase Chris Cruz Art or to sign up for classes, visit chriscruzdesigns.com.
DECK THE HALLS
There are so many great things happening at the Shelby County Arts Council this season! Attendees won’t want to miss a thing.
BY LINDSAY DYESS
PHOTO BY BUTCH OGLESBY
The Song Theater has a full schedule of great shows in November and December. They’ll entertain you and get you in the holiday spirit! Liz and the Grand Tour kicks off the month on Sunday, Nov. 3 with a “road trip” through 70 years of classic country tunes. They will honor legendary musicians such as Patsy Cline, Hank Williams, Merle Haggard and more. Next up is Song Theater favorites, The Wildflowers—a tribute to Tom Petty—on Friday, Nov. 8. Rock out to some of your favorite hits in a superb listening room. The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a visit from Act of Congress on Saturday, Nov. 16. This is the perfect show to kick off the Christmas season.
Speaking of Christmas shows, be sure to join us on Sunday, Dec. 8 for Dolores Hydock and Bobby Horton’s spectacular holiday show, “Jingle All the Way.” Dolores delights us with holiday stories with which everyone can relate, while Bobby plays traditional Christmas standards. On Tuesday, Dec. 10 and Thursday, Dec. 12, our children’s theatre class will perform the classic holiday story, “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Both performances will be at 6:30 p.m., and tickets can be purchased at the door. Closing out the Song Theater season will be Sean of the South on Dec. 14. This special show will be a downhome Christmas show featuring bluegrass, jazz and old-time traditional Christmas songs, and of course, some signature Sean stories. Be sure to visit Old Mill Square Park on Fridays in December for the City of Columbiana’s Christmas in the Park event. On Dec. 20, past Song Theater performers Rose Colored Glasses will perform a free concert in the park. For tickets and information on all these events, visit shelbycountyartscouncil. com.
If you’re an Alabama artist looking to enter your work into a juried show, the deadline for the annual Robin Nance Metz Art Competition is Nov. 25. All
Alabama artists ages 18 and up are invited to enter artwork in the categories of painting, printmaking, digital art, fiber art, drawing, photography, fine art crafts and sculpture. The cost is $45 to enter up to two works of art. There will be cash prizes for winners, and the show will be on display in the EBSCO Fine Art Gallery from Jan. 23-Feb. 27, 2025. If purchasing art is more your speed, don’t miss out on the annual SCAC Holiday Artist Market. The Artist Market preview party will be held on Friday, Dec. 6 from 6-8 p.m. The full shopping day will take place on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. At this market, you’ll find beautiful art and fine crafts by a variety of local artists, featuring everything from pottery, paintings, Christmas ornaments and more.
For information on upcoming events, to purchase tickets or to see what we’re up to at the Shelby County Arts Council, visit shelbycountyartscouncil. com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@shelby_county_arts).
THIS BOOK
Children’s Holiday Reads
Recommendations from Jennifer Combs
Library Director at the Columbiana Public Library
In November
By Cynthia Rylant | Fiction
Jennifer Combs developed a passion for libraries at the age of 10, when she received her first library card. She has been an integral part of the Shelby County Library system since 2009. In 2020, she earned her Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Alabama. Since fall 2022, she has served as the director of the Columbiana Public Library. Here, Jennifer recommends her five favorite reading selections children will love this winter.
As winter approaches, furry animals prepare for the cold by preparing their homes and settling in for a cozy slumber. The book captures their snug, wintertime routines and the peacefulness of their preparations. At the end, the story shifts to a heartwarming Thanksgiving scene, where a family celebrates and shares their love. The illustrations showcase the colors of the season in a realistic manner that matches the lyrical words throughout the book.
Twas the Night Before Christmas
By Clement Moore | Fiction
This is a true Christmas classic that captures the excitement of Santa’s arrival. The lyrical poem brings the holiday season to life with its celebration of anticipation and wonder. From the mice in their bed, the children with hopes for the coming morning, to the parents who are just as surprised to finally spy Santa on his journey, this is highly recommended for everyone celebrating the Christmas season.
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Sleigh
By Mo Willems | Fiction
Everyone loves Pigeon and his antics. In this book, he begs Santa for the chance to drive the sleigh this year. He tells everyone that he can do the things Santa can do, but can he? The book ends with a surprising ending of whether Pigeon actually gets in the driver’s seat.
Latke, the Lucky Dog
By Ellen Fischer | Fiction
Latke, a shelter dog just wanting a forever home, learns there is a lot to know about being a family pet. Poor Latke seems to get in trouble every time he tries to fit in. Luckily, his new family is patient with him and shows him what love is, especially around Hanukkah.
Dewey’s Christmas at the Library
By Vicki Myron and Bret Witter | Fiction
Dewey Readmore Books, the new cat at the Spencer, Iowa-based public library, experiences Christmas for the first time. He watches as decorations are hung up all around town and at the library. He wants to get involved but doesn’t know how. Only after a few silly misadventures does he add a special touch to the Christmas tree to the delight of everyone.
SCHOOL SPORTS&
EQUIPPING GREATNESS
Shelby County-based nonprofit Equip is helping change students’ lives by celebrating uniqueness.
BY ANNA GRACE MOORE
PHOTOS BY BLAIR RAMSEY & CONTRIBUTED
EEquipped with the right resources, a student will succeed beyond anyone’s wildest dreams. All it takes to make a difference is someone who cares.
Born from a love for other people, Equip is a 501(c) 3 based out of Valleydale Church in Hoover. It provides vocational, life and social skills training for teenagers and adults living with disabilities.
Executive Director Blake Huynh founded Equip in fall 2018 after having worked with people of all ages and abilities. The programs mobilize Equip instructors to assist students in both Jefferson County and Shelby County Schools, allowing aides to form one-on-one relationships with students in need.
Through these specially tailored curriculums, students’ unique needs that often fall through the
cracks in public schooling are now being prioritized. No student is left behind.
“All of them have something that is a minor setback, but they could easily go and do any job that you can imagine,” Blake says. “I’ve had a student that we worked with that is now an architect. He is very successful, but he just struggled with social interactions. He struggled getting a job because of his interview skills. We practiced a few things–cognitive resolution, social cues–and now, he’s very successful at what he does.”
Blake’s love for working with students with special needs blossomed years ago when he was working as a camp counselor at Camp Winnataska. The Exceptional Foundation would often bring students to partake in activities, and Blake says he’ll
never forget how much positivity radiated from their smiles.
“I think this is just my calling,” he says. “I can’t sit behind a desk and work. I’m not great with numbers. What I do love is working with this population. I love hanging out with the participants of the day program. I could sit and hangout with them all day, every day.”
An alumnus of the University of Alabama, Blake majored in collaborative special education and worked at The Exceptional Foundation and in Jefferson and Shelby counties’ school systems before branching out to create Equip. While working in Shelby County Schools, Blake worked in a program called, “Project Search,” which allowed students the opportunity to learn job skills firsthand while interning at Shelby Baptist Hospital.
Working with individual students, he realized
many students with special needs were not receiving adequate attention in school and were falling behind. Life did not seem to improve much for a few after graduation, either.
A lot of those same students could not find employment and were living sedentary lifestyles. However, these individuals were incredibly bright and quite capable of contributing in the workforce–all they needed was a chance.
“I’m so thankful for Blake to see that there was a need for something different, something more, to have the heart to go out there and make it happen,” says Suzanne Corso, mother of Equip student Andrew Corso.
Now only 6 years old, Equip has worked with hundreds of students through its in-school counseling programs, totaling a record number of 700 high school students just last year. The
nonprofit currently offers 53 different classes on topics from good, personal hygiene to financial literacy to conflict resolution and more.
In March 2024, Equip hosted a mock interview day, inviting nearly 100 business professionals to come help students practice job interviews and receive constructive feedback. Each student got to practice at least five different interviews.
“We get to go into the schools and go over that feedback with them and talk about how they can improve for the future,” Blake says. “We’ve even had a few students receive job offers from our mock interview day. We love to see that.”
Equip also hosts a career expo each year, featuring around 25 guest speakers from various career paths students may be interested in pursuing. Professionals in construction to nursing to cosmetology to welding to landscaping and more all talk to students, often meeting with them individually, to give career advice and network with them about post-high school opportunities.
In 2022, Blake and the team at Equip founded Thrive, which is an in-house day program for individuals ages 18 and older who have special needs. Since its inception only two years ago, Thrive has grown to include 44 participants.
Designed to teach and promote independence, Thrive students practice a wide array of skills such as grocery shopping, cooking and household management. One of the students’ most recent endeavors involved them cooking a meal for multiple people.
Those students were able to travel to a local grocery store, source their own ingredients and come back to the program and learn not just how to cook the food, but also how to utilize various cooking methods and utensils.
“One participant, Bo, is in the hall of fame for the Birmingham Barons,” Blake says. “He was their bat boy for years. He came to our program, and he loves our cooking classes so much that when he goes home, he’ll then show what he learned by streaming himself cooking. For me, that was a great thing to watch because it made me realize he was generalizing the skill. He was able to take it home and apply it. Now, he’s able to cook his own food,
which he did not feel confident doing before that class.”
Another skill Blake makes sure to implement in all of Equip’s curriculums is generosity, emphasizing giving back to the community. Recently, Thrive students were able to buy groceries from Sam’s Club and pack meals for students in need through the Shelby County-based nonprofit, Backpack Buddies.
Exceptional Baits
“Exceptional Baits offers fishing lures that are produced and packaged by our clients, who are all adults living with disabilities. This unique program provides them with the opportunity to develop job skills, work collaboratively, unleash their creativity and earn wages. By supporting Exceptional Baits, you’re not only getting top-quality fishing lures, you’re also helping change lives.”
-Blake Huynh, Equip
To view or purchase Exceptional Baits products, visit equipservices.org/exceptionalbaits.
Blake says watching the students’ faces light up as they felt needed and important for maybe one of the first times in their lives was heartwarming. To help promote job opportunities, Equip created an in-house business, Exceptional Baits.
Exceptional Baits employs adults with disabilities in creating fishing lures. The team of workers is led by Andrew, who loves helping teach such a creative process, while also earning an honest wage for his work.
“Blake works with some more severely challenged individuals, and when they come to work at Exceptional Baits when Andrew is there, Blake says Andrew is just really good with them and encouraging and helpful,” Suzanne says. “He thinks that would be a good fit for employment for Andrew in the future–working with the special needs community.”
Today, students such as Bo and Andrew have a newfound purpose and are capitalizing on such passion through the skill sets they’re learning through Equip. Thanks to Equip, hundreds of students of all ages and abilities are being seen and heard–their needs are being met.
Because one man cared, an entire community is being helped. Today, that’s Shelby County, but tomorrow, that could be the world.
To learn more information about Equip, visit equipservices.org.
every child takes center stage.
At Children’s of Alabama, kids are the center of our world and our mission is to provide the very best care available to every child. It’s why we are here.
1600
CALERA MAIN STREET TRANSFORMING CITY’S DOWNTOWN AREA
Calera Main Street celebrated a significant milestone with the long-awaited grand opening of the Calera Courtyard playground and alley activation. The transformation of this once pothole-riddled shortcut into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly space is an exciting development for downtown businesses, residents and visitors alike.
Calera Main Street Director Jackie Batson had envisioned revitalizing the alley and courtyard since Calera Main Street was established in June 2019. Over the years, small improvements— including the installation of whimsical string lights and the restoration of a nostalgic Coca-Cola mural—began to reshape the alley’s identity. Now, it boasts fresh landscaping, inviting metal benches, and a striking entryway arch that warmly welcomes
all who pass through.
The arch, fabricated and installed by the Sloss Furnaces Foundation, serves not just as an aesthetic enhancement, but also as a symbolic gateway to the revitalized courtyard. The collaboration with the city of Calera and local sponsors has been integral to the project’s success, and Jackie’s gratitude for their unwavering support was evident.
At the ceremony, Calera Mayor Jon Graham highlighted the long-standing dream of revitalizing Main Street, noting that such transformations require collective effort. He acknowledged the participation of local merchants, property owners and various levels of government, emphasizing that this success story is a testament to teamwork and a shared vision.
In addition to the alley’s activation, the highlight of the day was the opening of a brand-new playground, designed with accessibility and inclusivity in mind. Made possible through partnerships with Shelby County and the city of Calera, the playground features sensory play panels, safety rails and accessibility enhancements for children using mobility devices. This thoughtful design aims to ensure that all children, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy playtime together. Among the playground’s exciting attractions are a Tot Builders playhouse, surface spinner, musical instruments and a swing set featuring traditional, toddler and inclusive swings. The playground’s potential for community engagement and developmental activities resonated strongly with attendees, including Carole Lyons, Director of Development and Community Relations for The Arc of Shelby County. Carole highlighted the playground’s capacity to serve various programs,
Events
Nov. 1 5th Quarter
Nov. 11
Veterans Day Free Coffee @ Adventurer’s
Nov. 16
Calera Nerd Fest
Nov. 23
Calera’s Winter Wonderland Pageant
Nov. 23
Tree Lighting
Nov. 23 - Jan. 2
Festival of Trees
Nov. 30
Shop Small Saturday & Breakfast with Santa
Dec. 7
Christmas Parade
Dec. 31
New Year’s Eve Party & Fireworks
from picnics to therapeutic activities, noting that its inclusive nature is invaluable to families in the area.
Residents and guests echoed this sentiment. Many praised the playground’s layout, which includes separate areas for younger and older children, enhancing safety and ease of supervision. Guests appreciated thoughtful additions such as the communication board, sensory play features, quiet areas and shaded seating, which allows parents to enjoy time with their children while keeping a watchful eye.
With the completion of these projects, Calera Main Street is poised to present a series of exciting community events. Already this fall, the courtyard has hosted Calera’s first car show and its annual Trunk or Treat. Looking ahead, residents can expect many more events and gatherings aimed at bringing something fun and entertaining for residents of all ages.
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
Aspen Warren Coast 2 Coast International Athletics Competition Gold Medalist
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Based in Queensland, Australia, the Coast 2 Coast International Athletics Competition invites athletes from across the world to compete on an international stage, in efforts to break down cultural barriers and promote unity among athletes over the love of sports. Helena High School alumnus Aspen Warren participated in this year’s event in July 2024, finishing in the 1,500-meter race with a time of 4:01:68 and in the 800-meter race with a time of 1:52:95 and winning both events. Here, Aspen relays his love for running and his gratitude for the Helena community.
How has the community responded to your athletic achievements?
Before I even went, I had a bunch of support. I had a GoFundMe, and a bunch of people in the community helped me out. I paid for most of the trip through that. It was cool to represent my city and my country.
How did you get involved in running track and field?
Honestly, when I got into it, I didn’t even think it was a sport. I started off my seventh-grade year for the cross country team. The reason why I joined was because my soccer coach made the whole soccer team join the cross country team for conditioning. My eighth grade year, I ran up with the high school because at the time, the middle school cross country coach quit. The middle schoolers were training with the high schoolers. When we
got new coaches for the middle school, all of the middle schoolers went back, but the high school coach told me, ‘You’re really good. I want you to run up with us. Would you want to run for the varsity team?’ (I was in eighth grade). I said, ‘Heck no!’ He reached out to my parents, and they said, ‘Yes, you’re going to be running track and cross country for high school!’ The rest is history.
What did you do to train for this event?
My state competition for high school was in early May. I had a month and a half to train after that. I got my invitation in August 2023, and I honestly trained the same way as I would in high school. I just prolonged my training to keep staying in shape and improving.
What stood out to you most while competing?
During the whole competition, it was really cool, having a Team USA jersey. I met a bunch of world-class athletes. It was really cool to be in that environment. Everyone was nice. It was definitely weird going from high school to an international meet. It is very humbling.
What piece of advice do you have for other young, aspiring athletes?
Work hard, but make sure you’re having fun. At the end of the day, if it’s a chore, then it’s not worth it. Secondly, if you do want to see results, not just in athletics but in anything in life, practice discipline and consistency. They are the biggest lessons I’ve learned from running. Doing hard things when you don’t feel like it is the definition of discipline.
FOOD DRINK&
WHISKED AWAY
Al Ruffino’s family’s recipes prove scrumptious is the standard for those with a baker’s heart.
BY ANNA GRACE MOORE PHOTOS BY UNTOLD IMAGERY
FFluent in the language of pastry arts, Al Ruffino’s talent is evident in every bite of his cherished, Italian cookies. A tango between sweet and salty, his cookies’ flavors yield a mouthful of sensation that’s rich not just in spice, but also in memories.
The pastry chef’s history dates back to when his family lived in Sicily and immigrated to the U.S. Recipes–thus a love for the relationships that food bridges–transcended generations and found themselves coming to fruition in the Ruffino family kitchen.
Growing up in both New Orleans and Bessemer, Al recalls baking with his mother, grandmother and many, many aunts over the weekends and on holidays. Weddings, funerals, birthdays, anniversaries–they were all momentous occasions of which people could expect at least one thing:
cookies.
“My aunts and my grandmother gave me the love for cooking,” Al says. “I used to watch them prepare meals for St. Joseph’s Altar, weddings, funerals.”
Upon reaching the milestone of 18, Al attended Bessemer State Technical College, where he received his associate degree in food services. Despite being raised in a family of chefs, Al knew this was not going to be the trajectory of his life’s course.
Instead, he began working in the hotel industry and earned an apprenticeship with the Culinary Institute of America program in Houston, Texas. Al made the cross-country trek to the Lone Star State and completed his training in pastry arts; thus, answering his call to “create.”
“I had a chef tell me once, ‘You cannot learn everything there is to know about pastry unless you
work under many different people,’” he says. “‘They won’t teach you that in school. They teach you the basics, and you have to make yourself successful.’”
Off went this aspiring patissier on a journey across the country, juggling two sometimes three jobs at a time–all in the name of learning. As fate would have it, Al wound back up in the “foodie city,” working for several big dogs in the industry.
Al’s recipes made the print in numerous, highprofile restaurants in town, but he never took credit. In 2020, he jumped over the hump of retirement, and unsurprisingly, went back to work baking cookies for friends and family during the holiday season.
Family members, friends and flavor fanatics flocked to purchase some of Al’s homemade delights, prompting his now business partner and friend, Chris Clinner, to inquire why Al never went into business for himself.
“Chris goes, ‘You’ve made all these other people
successful. It’s time to make you successful. Why don’t we go into the cookie business?’”
The following month, Al, Chris and Jay Ewing–Al’s partner–went into business together, creating The Italian Cookie Company in January 2023. Since its inception, The Italian Cookie Company has grown from Al’s kitchen to a commissary in Alabaster, churning out around 25,000 cookies every week.
Word soon spread like wildfire as customers–many of them retailers themselves–started buying in bulk for Christmas gifts, weddings and more. Today, The Italian Cookie Company has 12 different cookies on the menu, and 14 different Alabama stores sell its products, too.
Not only is every cookie made-from-scratch, but many of the ingredients are locally sourced. Even better, each recipe is one passed down through Al’s family, and some come with a twist: customer recommendations.
“When we started going to the markets, we realized there were a lot of Italians in the area that didn’t have access to what we do,” Chris says. “We had a lot of people excited about what we were doing. They wanted to share their recipes with us and their versions of the cookies. That’s how we started growing. They would share their family stuff–what they like about the Italian cookies. We would learn how they do them, what they like and develop the next cookie we’d come out with.”
The Cuccidati, otherwise known as the fig cookie, tastes like waking up on Christmas morning as a child. With notes of cinnamon, tangerine and honey, its nutty, sticky interior is encased in a delightful shortbread exterior.
A traditional “Italian” favorite, the Italian Wedding Cookie is the closest sample to heaven one can taste. This light, sweet option relishes one’s palate with a hint of Anise.
On the other end of the pendulum, the Pecan Cocoon–still rich in flavor–yields a hearty taste and pairs great with African black roast coffee. Blending toasted pecan flour with vanilla, this crunchy selection packs a punch in every bite.
“There’s a lot of love that goes into my product,” Al says. “Every time I make a cookie, there’s a memory that pops up. It is of my aunts, my grandmother, my mother making them, and the love and the passion they had to do that. It wasn’t easy back in those days. I hope that I am creating memories for others.”
When Al bites into the Cuccidati, he remembers baking them by the dozens. All the extended family would gather elbow-toelbow, packing like sardines in the kitchen.
Sugar Rush
The Italian Cookie Company’s products are sold inperson at these Alabama retailers:
uAlabama Goods | Homewood, Hoover & Huntsville
uCappella Pizzeria | Highway 280 (Shelby County)
uHazel’s Market | Daphne
uIz Cafe and Catering | Vestavia Hills
uJust A Tish, Wine & More | Columbiana
uMark’s Mart | Tuscaloosa
uMosley’s Fine Meats | Daphne
uMr. P’s Butcher Shop & Deli | Hoover
uNew York Butcher Shoppe | Hoover & Vestavia Hills
The Italian Cookie Company’s products are also sold directly at these local farmers markets:
uThe Market at Brock’s Gap | Hoover
uThe Market at Pepper Place | Birmingham
One would grind all of the spices and nuts and fruits, slowly churning out the maroon paste before the next would mold the concoction into rolls of dough and pinch off inches to bake. Decadent aromas wafted through the house, engulfing the air with a sense of nostalgia while whisking one away to a simpler time.
His family would bake from dawn till dusk, scattering sheets of cookies on every bed, couch, table and chair in the house. They would then pack cookies–hundreds of cookies–in every spare tin and Tupperware spilling over from the cupboards.
The best part, however, was delivering such goodies to their neighbors, friends, more family members, church goers, coworkers–anyone they could find to bless. The only thing more abundant than cookies in the Ruffino family household during the holidays was the love they shared for one another.
Al credits his mother, Jeanette Ruffino, and his aunts, Marie Hammond, Josephine Scalisi and Bernadine Chiarella, for their time and talents they invested into him. Because of them, he gets to do what he loves every day–and part of that love is reminding future generations of their heritage.
“One of our slogans is ‘we remember the moments,’” Chris says. “That’s what we’re about. Our good friend Sonia once told [Al] we’re not selling cookies. We’re selling memories. That’s
We want the early learning years to be an experience that truly delights both parents and their children. We commit to pursuing excellence in all areas so that the years spent with us are an investment in the child’s future. Our desire to continually set standards and exceed expectations sets the stage for a childcare experience that families are excited to be a part of!
what it is for us. We’re just making things, but it’s the memories behind them, the traditions, the Italian heritage, that we’re trying to preserve.”
Truly, savoring a cookie crafted by The Italian Cookie Company is a lucky thing. If one concentrates hard enough, he will taste an authenticity like no other–familial pride passed
down through generations and baked into perfection.
Such flavor has no rival when it comes from the heart, and in Al Ruffino’s case, a lineage of love.
Learn more about The Italian Cookie Company and purchase products online at theitaliancookiecompany.com.
FIVE QUESTIONS FOR
Adam Valentine
Co-Owner of Valhalla Board Game Cafe
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Valhalla Board Game Cafe Co-Owners Adam Valentine and Nick Hammett both have a strong history of managing restaurants throughout their careers. In 2019, they began brainstorming business endeavors where people could bond in a laid-back, welcoming environment. The result became a board game cafe whose moniker pays tribute to their love of Norse mythology. Officially open since Saturday, June 1, Valhalla Board Game Cafe serves a niche menu of local coffee, beer, mead, sandwiches and even charcuterie boards. The real kicker, however, are the plethora of games customers can play while dining in. There’s a game for everyone, just as everyone is welcome to join in on the fun. Here, Adam provides an insider’s scoop on the “board game-cafe business.”
How does the laid-back atmosphere contribute to the overall dining and entertainment experience of your customers?
It truly is a constantly fluid thing to manage the need for laid-back gaming and the need to maintain a certain level of “table flipping” as it’s referred to. However, I think we balance it nicely by having comfortable chairs to game in and quick menu items to get out to guests. Overall, we hope they enjoy an elevated experience of food and gaming that makes them want to come and see us again.
Which menu items are your favorites, and which would you recommend to newcomers?
Our selection of Viking Sandwiches with five ounces of meat and our locally roasted coffee would be the main attractions for sure.
How many board games does the cafe offer, and which is your favorite?
We have more than 200 games in our library. Some of our favorites are Jamaica, Ticket to Ride and Dice Forge.
Out of all the types of cafes to open or businesses to go into, why a “board game cafe?”
Board games are such a booming hobby, and the concept of a board game cafe
originates overseas and has traveled over to Canada and down into the U.S. over the years. We just thought it would be an amazing business venture.
What makes your career worthwhile?
Being able to own your own business comes with ups and downs, but the greatest thing of all is seeing everyone’s excitement when they come by.
Valhalla Board Game Cafe is located at 2408 Pelham Parkway Suite 400. It is open Monday-Friday from 2-11 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday from 7 a.m.-11 p.m. For more information, visit valhallaboardgames.com.
HOME STYLE&
ARCHITECTURAL LUXURY
The Jordans’ home’s personality is elevated through chic décor and intentional design.
BY ANNA GRACE MOORE
PHOTOS BY BLAIR RAMSEY
Face of the Home
FShelby County natives, themselves, Forrest and Brooke Jordan have always loved the tight-knit community of which they were raised. After graduating from Briarwood Christian School and Spain Park High School, Forrest and Brook both attended the University of Alabama, where they first met and fell in love.
Graduate school and job opportunities took them to Dallas, Texas, where Forrest worked in software development and became one of the founding software engineers for LTK (Like to Know It).
Brooke graduated with honors from dental school at Baylor University, and upon moving back to Birmingham, founded her own practice, Brooke Totty Jordan Dental Studio in Brook Highland.
The couple soon set up roots in Liberty Park and searched passively for three years before finding their dream home in Greystone Legacy. Funnily enough, Forrest’s hair stylist connected him with Ann Marie James–co-founder of White House Interiors.
Forrest says working with Ann Marie was
incredible. Not only did she oversee their house’s entire renovation and design process, but she also furnished the whole home with hand-picked selections from White House Interiors.
Ann Marie remodeled every room, focusing on creating a light, bright and airy aesthetic that elevated the presence for the Jordans. The kitchen’s remodel involved tearing out the cabinets, countertops, floors and appliances.
Utilizing custom choices from Brewer Cabinets, Visual Comfort and Surface One, the kitchen’s design yields an upscale yet unpretentious mood, highlighting its modern sophistication. The master bathroom rivals the kitchen’s remodel as its walkthrough shower is both spacious and elegant, thanks to its doorless, floor-to-ceiling design.
The Jordans’ home is the perfect haven for a growing family with big dreams. Its personality is reminiscent of architectural luxury accentuated through intentional design.
Hats off to Ann Marie, the Jordans say. Perfection is a hard thing to achieve.
This architectural marvel was first built in 2005.
Entryway
Adorning the foyer’s ceiling is a beautiful crystal chandelier original to the house’s build.
Dining Room
The custom, handmade dining room table with a hammered gold accent base complements the room’s symmetry.
Living Room
The living room’s modern pieces contribute to the moody, ethereal tranquility the space provides. The stunning abstract embellishing the limestone fireplace is an original by Carrie Pittman Hill.
Olivia’s Room
This “pretty in pink” room is a wonderland for a 4-year-old princess.
Intimate reminders of love and beauty, floral accents were incorporated into this room’s design
Master Bedroom
Adding to the home’s alluring beauty, the bed’s overlaying textiles in the master suite as well as all of the bedrooms are from Bella Notte Linens.
Master Bathroom
Oversized, porcelain tiles were incorporated into this spa of a bathroom, opening up the room to feel bright and airy. The house’s most impressive feature is the walk-through shower, which has no doors and is accessible through either side.
Adeline’s Room
With notes of silver and blue, this spacious nursery boasts a king-sized suite with double nightstands, a crib and a nursing area.
This giraffe serves as a sweet, gentle reminder that no matter how tall, little ones can do “big things,” too.
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
Raised by his grandparents, Charlie Bradford graduated high school and went straight to work in the construction industry, eventually creating his own business, Lucas Homes LLC.
Although he did not have much growing up, Charlie remembers his grandmother’s loving smile, her tender heart poured out over the kitchen table as each meal she fed him was a labor of love. That was enough for him.
Fast forward to 2019, Charlie took his grandmother’s blessings and began multiplying them ten-fold, as he, too, began cooking and delivering meals to families in need in his community. One day, Charlie was delivering meals to an elderly lady in Vincent, when he ran into the woman’s grandson whose bicycle had broken.
Having always had a “mechanical mind,” Charlie took
the bike home and fixed it, bringing it back to the little boy. Pure joy radiated from that young one’s face as he saw his bike–which had been broken for at least a month–all shiny and new.
The boy jumped on the bike and rode for hours, gleefully biking back and forth in the front driveway.
Charlie never forgot that precious child’s smile.
THE BURDEN WE BEAR
The COVID-19 pandemic struck the less fortunate harder than any other, crippling families to rely much on the generosity of their neighbors. Charlie remembers several of his friends losing their jobs, left wondering how they would put food on the table for their families.
Charlie went to bed one night feeling powerless, but he woke up the next morning with a calling from God: Start donating bikes to children in need. A little timid but fueled by his faith, Charlie said, “Okay.”
“As a kid, waking up on Christmas morning, a new bicycle was everything, especially if you were growing up poor,” he says.
Not knowing how he would start, Charlie created a Facebook group, asking for donations of children’s bikes. The group’s popularity grew like wildfire, amassing 1,500 members by the end of the week.
“Everybody has got an old bicycle laying around,” Charlie says. “I could do 10 or 12 bicycles for kids and take them to the next level and personalize them. Whatever they can come up with in their
mind, we put into the paint decals–put their name on it, too. It’s a custom bike built specifically for that kid.”
On Nov. 1, 2020, Bikes 4 Kids was founded, and by Dec. 25, the nonprofit donated 160 bicycles as Christmas presents. While not everyone could donate a bike, many donated financially, enabling Charlie to donate meals and clothing for struggling families during both the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.
By May 2021, the nonprofit grew to answer the needs of children in multiple states up the East Coast. Today, the group’s following has reached a combined 6,000 followers across several platforms, and more than 3,000 children have been helped since its inception.
More than 2,000 bicycles have been donated, too. Charlie and his children upcycle donations at their workshop in Chelsea along with other local volunteers.
Although a meticulous process, restoring these gifts is worth every penny, he says.
ANSWERING THE CALL
The first bicycle that Bikes 4 Kids ever gifted was
to a young boy named Zac, whose grandfather passed away around Thanksgiving the year prior.
Charlie custom-built a bike boasting the moniker, “In Memory of Meadows,” (Zac’s grandfather’s last name).
The bike was green, black and white, and it had both Zac’s grandfather’s Agent Orange patch and newly-made dog tags embedded into the design.
Charlie says Zac loved the thoughtful gift so much that he hung it in his room instead of riding it, wanting to commemorate his grandfather’s sacrifices during the Vietnam War.
“I love it,” Charlie says of restoring bikes for children. “It gives me motivation to keep doing what I’m doing and let God guide me through it.”
Several hundred donations later, Charlie faced his most challenging call to action. He custom-built a bicycle for a young boy battling stage IV neuroblastoma.
Gage Roper, who only lived to be 8 years old, embodied the best in humanity. Passionate and full of life, Gage was diagnosed with cancer as a toddler, and after numerous rounds of chemotherapy, he was told later on that his disease was incurable.
Gage made the brave decision to stop his treatment and live his life to the fullest, however long that may be. When Charlie heard his story, he
Have an old bike?
Bikes 4 Kids accepts donations of old bicycles year-round. Those wishing to help can drop off their donations at the following locations:
knew he had to help.
uBikes 4 Kids
11579 Chelsea Road, Chelsea, AL 35043
uMax Motorsports
2591 Pelham Parkway, Pelham, AL 35124
At the 2024 Deep South Crawfish Rodeo in Jemison, the Chilton County Fire Department named Gage the “honorary fire chief,” and during the rodeo’s announcement, Charlie presented a brand-new, custom-made bicycle for Gage.
“That kid’s eyes lit up,” Charlie says, tearfully. “He jumped on that bike and rode it in the area. I never imagined the bicycle would do this much for a
dying kid.”
Bikes 4 Kids shared Gage’s story, and all across the country, people began mailing him presents and praying for him and his family.
“That kid got something in the mail every single day for a month before he passed away,” Charlie says. “He got a handmade calf blanket. The day that he passed away, he got it that morning and passed away at noon covered up in that blanket. It was unbelievable how God touched that kid because he was never supposed to be able to do anything but lay in a bed and die, but that wasn’t Gage. Gage lived every day up until he was gone.”
Even more than patrons were able to bless Gage, Charlie says Gage’s undying spirit and bravery in his final days blessed an entire wave of people. At such a young age, he fathomed death as inevitable,
and yet, he chose to live as he thought Jesus would even through the bitter end.
Gage Roper died a hero. Because of him, people felt the love of Jesus, and some may have even come to find the Lord because of his testimony.
All Charlie did, he says, was give the gift of a bicycle.
LOOKING TO THE HORIZON
Bikes 4 Kids hosts numerous fundraisers throughout the year. On May 18, Bikes 4 Kids joined forces with Provincial Pub in Columbiana, hosting a fundraising night that raised more than $1,200 not just for the nonprofit, but also for The Clint Mooney Scholarship Foundation and a local resident battling cancer, Bailey Lewis.
Then on July 6, Bikes 4 Kids hosted its annual car show, featuring more than 30 cars, food trucks, inflatables, a cornhole tournament and other family-friendly activities. More than 100 community members showed up, helping raise several thousands of dollars for the nonprofit.
The largest event-to-date, however, has been the Bikes 4 Kids Rodeo, which took place on Sept. 2728. With more than 3,000 in attendance, the rodeo featured all kinds of competitions such as bareback riding, saddle bronc, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, barrel racing, bull riding and more.
The city of Chelsea made a $10,000 donation towards the event and pledged to continue its support in the coming years.
“Our ultimate goal in the end is to build a place local here to Chelsea, not necessarily in Chelsea, but local enough that our surrounding communities can come to the building and bring their kids there and either build their own bicycle themselves or learn to give back to other kids in need,” Charlie says. “During the holidays, they can come in and actually help us build bikes for these kids in need.”
Bikes 4 Kids has also started custom-making bicycles for children with special needs, ensuring that every child, no matter his abilities, can have the
chance to ride a bike and feel included.
As Christmas 2024 approaches, Charlie says he has set his sights on restoring and donating more than 400 bicycles for Bikes 4 Kids’ ever-growing list of children in need. The community’s support is crucial in the nonprofit achieving its goals, and he feels so thankful that the Shelby County community has been bountiful in its blessings.
“It’s the most humbling and gratifying thing you’ll ever do in your life,” Charlie says of blessing the less fortunate. “It has humbled me to the core.”
Hardships in life are inevitable. However, one does not have to face them alone.
Because Charlie answered the Lord’s calling on his life, thousands of children have received Christmas presents, families have received meals and clothing and people have come to know the Lord.
One does not have to be rich to make a difference. He does not have to be a great speaker or have a huge following on social media, either.
All it takes to change the world is the courage to be obedient and say, “yes,” to the Lord’s calling on one’s life.
To learn more information about Bikes 4 Kids and how to donate, follow the nonprofit on Facebook (Bikes 4 Kids Inc. B4K).
A Sun-Soaked Getaway
By Christiana Roussel | Photos by Visit Tampa
When you cannot stand the gray chill of winter for another minute, it is time to book a trip to the Tampa/St. Petersburg area of Florida for a long weekend away. There are direct flights from Birmingham Shuttlesworth Airport to this central-Florida coastal destination with a plethora of things to do.
WHERE TO STAY
Whether you’re seeking luxury, boutique charm or a beachside retreat, Tampa and St. Pete have accommodations to fit every budget and style.
The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club (St. Pete)
A historic gem located on the downtown waterfront of St. Pete, The Vinoy Renaissance offers a blend of luxury and old-world charm. Opened in 1925, this pink Mediterranean Revival-style hotel has hosted celebrities, athletes and political figures. The resort offers elegant rooms, a full-service spa, a golf course and a pool that overlooks the sparkling waters of Tampa Bay. The Vinoy is just steps from St. Pete Pier, offering stunning views and access to restaurants, parks and cultural attractions.
The Tampa Edition (Tampa)
For a more modern and luxurious experi-
ence, The Tampa Edition is located in the heart of downtown Tampa. With its contemporary design and upscale amenities, it’s ideal for travelers who want to be near the vibrant dining and entertainment districts, including Water Street Tampa and Amalie Arena. The hotel’s rooftop pool and bar provide stunning views of the skyline and a chic space to relax and enjoy a cocktail after a day of exploring.
Hotel Haya (Ybor City, Tampa)
For a boutique experience rich in history, check out Hotel Haya in the heart of Ybor City. This stylish hotel blends Ybor’s historic Cuban and Spanish influences with modern design. With colorful rooms, an excellent restaurant (Flor Fina) and proximity to the lively streets of
Ybor City, it’s perfect for those wanting a more local and cultural experience.
The
Don CeSar (St. Pete Beach)
Known as the “Pink Palace,” The Don CeSar is an iconic beachfront resort located on the shores of St. Pete Beach. Built in 1928, the hotel combines Gatsby-era glamour with modern luxury. Its prime location on the Gulf of Mexico makes it a perfect base for beach lovers who also want easy access to downtown St. Pete. The hotel features two beachfront pools, a full-service spa and multiple dining options, ensuring you’ll never want to leave this paradise. Fun fact: New York Times best-selling author Nicholas Sparks set his novel Dreamland here.
The Don CeSar
The Vinoy
WHAT TO DO
The beauty of visiting Tampa and St. Pete in the winter is that you can enjoy outdoor activities without the intense heat and humidity. Here’s a breakdown of the best things to do while you’re in town:
Tampa
Riverwalk (Tampa)
The Tampa Riverwalk is a 2.6-mile pedestrian path that winds along the Hillsborough River, connecting many of Tampa’s top attractions, including the Tampa Museum of Art, Curtis Hixon Park and the Florida Aquarium. Local tip: Rent a bike or scooter to explore the entire Riverwalk and stop for lunch at Armature Works, a historic building-turned-trendy-food-hall with a variety of local food vendors and outdoor seating.
The Dalí Museum (St. Petersburg)
Art lovers can’t miss The Dalí Museum, home to the largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s works outside of Spain. The museum’s striking architecture is a work of art in itself. Inside you’ll find a mix of surrealist paintings, sculptures and interactive exhibits that delve into Dalí’s life and career. The Dalí Museum is located on St. Pete’s waterfront, offering beautiful views of Tampa Bay. Local tip: Visit the museum on a Thursday evening for reduced admission prices and a chance to enjoy the museum’s outdoor gardens and waterfront views during sunset.
TIPS FROM A LOCAL
Artist and anthropologist Lindsey Simonds of Litore Studio calls St. Pete home and is proud to share a few of her area favorites:
• The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art: “This is such a fun, different thing you wouldn’t expect to see in St. Pete but their collection—especially the turquoise—is stunning.”
• “Our go-to date night spot is Snappers, right on St. Pete Beach, which is run by a local fisherman. We also love Oxford Exchange (in Tampa) for brunch as well as their sister restaurant in St. Pete, The Library, which is beautifully lined with walls of blue books.
Follow Lindsey Simonds on Instagram (@litorestudio).
The Dalí Museum
Bayshore Boulevard
HIT THE ROAD
WHAT TO DO cont.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (Tampa)
Winter is an ideal time to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, one of the city’s most popular attractions. Cooler temps make it a breeze when exploring the park’s roller coasters, live entertainment and animal exhibits. For adrenaline junkies, rides such as Tigris and SheiKra will satisfy your need for speed, while animal lovers can get up close with giraffes, zebras and exotic birds on the Serengeti Safari.
St. Pete Beach
While the Gulf Coast waters may be a bit cool for swimming in the winter, St. Pete Beach is perfect for long walks along the shore, shell collecting and watching breathtaking sunsets. If you’re feeling adventurous, try renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of Boca Ciega Bay. Local tip: Head to Pass-a-Grille Beach, a quieter section of St. Pete Beach, for a more laid-back atmosphere and fewer crowds.
Explore Ybor City (Tampa)
Ybor City is Tampa’s historic district known for its Cuban, Spanish and Italian heritage. This neighborhood was once the cigar capital of the world, and today, it’s a lively hub filled with restaurants, bars and historic sites. Take a walking tour to learn about Ybor’s history, visit a local cigar shop to watch artisans hand-roll cigars or grab a coffee and a pastry from a local bakery. Local tip: Visit Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest, continuously operated restaurant (opened in 1905), for an authentic Cuban meal and its famous 1905 Salad.
The St. Pete Pier
St. Pete Pier is a revitalized 26-acre waterfront
Tampa Bay Riverwalk/ Boating
district that has become a must-visit spot for visitors. The pier features a range of activities, from shopping and dining to public art installations and interactive play areas for kids. Take a walk to the end of the pier for panoramic views of the city and the bay, or rent a kayak to explore the waters. You can even try your hand at fishing off the pier.
Tampa Bay Sports
For sports enthusiasts, winter in Tampa Bay is the perfect time to catch a game. The Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL) plays home games at Amalie Arena, offering an exciting atmo-
sphere for hockey fans. If football is more your style, catch the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in action at Raymond James Stadium. Both venues are easily accessible and located near Tampa’s vibrant downtown and Channelside District.
Sunken Gardens (St. Pete)
For a peaceful retreat into nature, visit Sunken Gardens, a 100-year-old botanical garden in the heart of St. Pete. Wander through lush, tropical gardens, past waterfalls and exotic plants. This hidden gem is a tranquil escape and provides plenty of Instagram-worthy photo ops.
Sunken Gardens
St. Pete Beach
WHERE TO EAT
Fresh
seafood, fusion cuisine and historic dining establishments are hallmarks of the Tampa and St. Pete dining scene.
Ulele (Tampa)
Located along the Tampa Riverwalk, Ulele is a popular restaurant that celebrates the indigenous people of Florida with a menu focused on locally sourced ingredients. The menu features dishes such as alligator hush puppies, chargrilled oysters and crab mac and cheese. The restaurant also brews its own beers, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a craft beer with your meal. Local tip: Request a table on the outdoor patio for views of the river and skyline.
Wild Child (St. Pete)
This self-proclaimed neighborhood bistro and cocktail bar comes with some advice, “slow down and coast,” which is something we long to do on vacation. Here, you’ll find street corn croquetas, ahi tuna tostadas, pan-roasted scallops and their signature crying tiger ribeye.
Bern’s Steak House (Tampa)
No trip to Tampa is complete without dining at Bern’s Steak House, an iconic fine dining establishment famous for its extensive wine list and dry-aged steaks. Bern’s offers a unique experience with its wine cellar and kitchen tours, as well as a dessert room where you can enjoy decadent treats in a private booth.
Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant (St. Pete)
For a taste of Spain, head to Ceviche in downtown St. Pete. This lively tapas bar offers a variety of small plates, from traditional Spanish dishes such as patatas bravas and tortilla Española to seafood-focused fare such as shrimp ceviche and grilled octopus. Pair your meal with one of the craft cocktails or a glass of sangria for the full experience.
La Segunda Bakery (Tampa)
For breakfast or a quick snack, locals swear by La Segunda Bakery. With four area locations, there’s no excuse for not stopping in for a classic Cuban sandwich.
Wild Child
GIFT GUIDE
Children’s Hospital Ornament
Reminiscent of the adored giraffe toy, our “Stacked with Sweetness” ornament is handmade in Europe. A percentage of the sales from this ornament will benefit Children’s of Alabama. $62. Brombergs. 2800 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook. 205.871.3276. brombergs.com
2. Recipe Hand Towels and Cutting Boards
Turn your favorite recipe card into a heartwarming gift. Perfect to preserve your grandmother’s recipes or share your new ones. Available in a flour sack towel or wooden cutting board, which create the perfect pair. Ready next business day. Towels $21. Boards $41. Fun Stuff. 3370 Morgan Dr, Vestavia Hills. 205.823.3688. funstuffgifts.com
3. Le Creuset Dutch Oven
These dutch ovens are the ultimate cooking pot. The cast iron core keeps the food at an even temperature for a perfect cooking experience, and the enamel coating provides a chip-resistant colorful finish. Every cook should at least have one. 5.5-quart $420. 7.5-quart $460. The Cook Store. 2841 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook. 205.879.5277. thecookstoremtnbrook.com
4. Sweet Sipper
Created by designer Stephen Brown, this handblown glass stemware and coordinating cocktail shaker from the brand, Glitterville Studios, will certainly add whimsy to any get-together. $20-$38. Crestline Pharmacy. 60 Church St, Mountain Brook. 205.871.0317. facebook.com/crestlinepharmacy
5. Barefoot Dreams Blanket and Skincare Products
Wrap yourself in the irresistible softness of Barefoot Dreams. This celebrity favorite is a conversation piece to add to any home decor. Pair with AlphaRet Body Overnight Cream or any skincare product for ultimate luxury and relaxation. Blankets $147. AlphaRet $120. La Bella Skin & Wellness. 4510 Overton Rd, Ste 110, Birmingham. 205.994.8906. labellabirmingham.com
6. Caswell-Presidential Soap Set
Caswell soaps are triple-milled and made with natural botanicals.The presidential set lets you try the favorite scents of three American presidents. George Washington: Number Six. Dwight Eisenhower: Almond. John F. Kennedy: Jockey Club. $36. Ritch’s Pharmacy. 2174 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook. 205.871.1141. ritchspharmacy.com
7. Trish McEvoy Makeup Planner
Trish’s Makeup Planner is your portable vanity, smartly engineered to house all of your beauty products. The limited-edition 2024 collection includes beauty must-haves and new products to elevate your beauty routine like never before. $697 value. $298. Village Dermatology. 2900 Cahaba Rd, Mountain Brook. 205.877.9773. villagedermatology.net
8. Naga Lariat Necklace
The Naga Lariat hand-crafted necklace from John Hardy is made of 14-karat yellow gold with white diamond accents. Balinese for “dragon,” Naga is a legendary symbol of love, protection and prosperity. $5,900. Barton-Clay Fine Jewelers. 330 Rele St, Mountain Brook. 205.371.7060. bartonclay.com
9. Omnilux Red Light Mask
This FDA-cleared, dermatologist-recommended red light mask smooths fine lines, wrinkles and evens out redness. The perfect boost to any skincare routine, especially alongside Botox and medical-grade treatments. $395. Gunn Dermatology. 32 Church St, Mountain Brook. 391 Rele St, Mountain Brook. 205.415.7536. gunndermatology.com
10. Sublime Karité
These products are scientifically developed with a blend of hydrating and nourishing, plant-based ingredients to transform dry or dehydrated hair. Pair the appropriate shampoo, conditioner and leave-in for shiny, soft, frizz-free and beautifully hydrated hair. $36-54. Oak Street Hair Group. 125 Oak St, Mountain Brook. 205.879.3222. oakstreethairgroup.com
11. Nectifirm® Advanced
Say goodbye to hiding behind your turtleneck this winter! Nectifirm® Advanced harnesses the power of the skin’s own microbiome with a groundbreaking formula that combats the visible signs of moderate to advanced aging on the neck and décolletage. Purchase one Nectifirm® Advanced and receive a YouthFull Lip Replenisher® free. Nectifirm® Advanced $159. YouthFull Lip Replenisher® $42 value. Rousso Adams Facial Plastic Surgery. 2700 Hwy 280 W, Ste 300, Mountain Brook. 205.930.9595. drrousso.com
12. Ceylon Sapphire Ring
This Ceylon Sapphire Ring is composed of 2-carat sapphire, .5-carat diamond and 14-karat white gold. This is a one-of-a-kind, but there are plenty of other beautiful pieces for everyone on your list. Cummings Jewelry Design. 3166 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills. 205.298.9144. cummingsjewelrydesign.com
13. T’s Special Pepper Vinegar
Locally grown peppers from Ireland Farms along with garlic, yellow and black mustard seeds and peppercorns combine to create the perfect gift for someone who loves to cook. Use as a marinade or for turnip greens. Available through the holidays. $12. Troup’s Pizza. 3144 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills. 205.536.6860. troupspizza.com
14. Color Wow Styling Products
Color Wow is committed to using the highest quality, science-backed ingredients that exceed today’s clean beauty standards. Each product also includes at least two types of heat protection for safer styling and healthierlooking results. $24-$32. Salon Summit. 3161 Cahaba Heights Rd, Ste 101, Vestavia Hills. 205.518.0406. salon-summit.com
15. Multi Stars Fleece Robe
Discover the must-have gift of the year: Our tween-sized fuzzy robe with a fun star print. Cozy and stylish, this robe is ideal for lazy weekends and adds a pop of color to the wearer’s downtime. $58. Gigi’s. 3140 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills. 205.593.4586. gigisbham.com
16. Etta B Pottery
Etta B Pottery is carefully handmade and meticulously hand-painted in Etta, Mississippi. Many pieces and colors are available, including holiday designs. Pictured: Flutter Dish shown in a beautiful Matcha Leaf. Prices Vary. Blue Willow. 3930 Crosshaven Dr, Vestavia Hills. 205.968.0909. thebluewillow.com
17. Enchanted Three-Drawer Musical Jewelry Box
Gift a cherished keepsake with this timeless musical jewelry box, designed to hold their most special treasures. With its sweet melody and charming details, it brings magic and joy to every moment. $39. The Lili Pad. 3138 Heights Village, Vestavia Hills. 205.298.1811. lilipadbham.com
Who wouldn’t love cozy, stay-at-home slippers/ socks? One size fits most, and Fuzzy Footies with slip-resistant soles are a great way to check off your gift list with a “little something.” $12.99. Flip-Flops & What Nots. 4137 White Oak Dr, Vestavia Hills. 205.967.7429. flipflopsandwhatnots.com
19. Fendi Red Zucca Mini Tote
This is one of the many fabulous designer handbags you can find in store everyday! Stop in and see the selection. $400 (Retail $995). Second Hand Rose. 4200 Oakview Ln, Vestavia Hills. 205.970.7997. secondhandroseal.com
20. Custom Sweatshirt
This custom, embroidered Birmingham sweatshirt is a store favorite and will make the perfect gift this holiday season. $58. The Blended Bungalow. 1925 29th Ave S, Homewood. 432.816.8855. blendedbungalow.myshopify.com
21. Nest Candles
Mantooth Interiors is your home for all Nest collections and fragrances. Our large selection of holiday scents makes the perfect gift for friends and family. $49. Mantooth Interiors. 2813 18th St S, Homewood. 205.879.5474. mantoothinteriors.com
22. Sketch Pals
Kids can doodle with anything, including the attached stylus or even their fingernail. $23. Homewood Toy and Hobby. 2830 18th St S, Homewood. 205.879.3986. homewoodtoy-hobby. com
23. Men’s Tote and Toiletry Bag
Wasatch Duffel is the canvas weekender you’ve been looking for. Built with a heavy duty, 18-ounce waxed canvas and full-grain leather, this bag will take anything you throw at it. Check out this modern take on dad’s old toiletry bag with the same classic styling. Perfect duffel/luggage flight companion that will last a lifetime. Tote $295. Toiletry $97. Siebels Cottage. 2927 18th St S, Homewood. 205.879.3558. seibelscottage.com
24. Cookies
For one cookie or hundreds, Cookie Fix will sweeten your holidays with special holiday flavors and traditional favorites. Cookies from $2.75. Cookie Fix. Locations in Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Greystone, Homewood and Huntsville. cookiefix.com
25. Birthstone Fashion Ring
This gorgeous piece is a 14-karat yellow gold birthstone fashion ring with one pearshaped bezel set blue topaz and one round bezel set full-cut diamond. Sizing is free of charge. Stop by to see other birthstone options. $600. Southeastern Jewelers. 5299 Valleydale Rd, Ste 111, Birmingham. 205.980.9030. southeasternjewelers.net
26. Coffee Mug
This Kellie Montana custom coffee mug with a carrying bag is the perfect gift this holiday season. $21. Sweet Peas Garden Shop. 2829 Linden Ave, Homewood. 205.879.3839. sweetpeasgardenshop.com
27. Wooden Nutcracker
These collegiate wooden nutcrackers make great gifts for football fanatics. $34.99. Home Accents. 2750 Pelham Pkwy, Pelham. 205.621.2039. homeaccentsonline.com
28. Oliver Thomas
This perfect, lightweight rolling duffel has everything to keep you organized, moving and hands-free to help you get that cocktail in hand and feet in the sand. $175. Shoefly. 2823 18th St S, Homewood. 205.870.7131.
29. Orbix Hot Glass
The versatile sprinkle bowl is hand-blown by Orbix Hot Glass. Orbix is an award-winning glass company in River Canyon National Preserve. In-store only at our stores in Homewood and Hoover. $44.99. Alabama Goods. 2933 18th St S, Homewood. 5225 Peridot Pl, Ste 109, Hoover. 205.803.3900. alabamagoods.com
30. Evening Bag
An evening bag makes for a wonderful gift option and is perfect to use for those upcoming holiday parties. $55. At Home Furnishings. 2921 18th St S, Homewood. 205.879.3510. shopathomefurnishings.com
31. Children’s Book and Doll
Get to know Dorkle, a sweet and special little girl who is learning to love herself, quirks and all! She represents children who sometimes need a little “extra nudge” of encouragement and want to feel included. This is a fun and meaningful story, and you’ll enjoy finding out what happens on Dorkle’s Day at School. Sherri Springer Children’s Books. sherrispringerart.com
32. Necklace and Earrings
This gorgeous statement necklace and earrings are made of 14-karat gold and will be a sentimental gift for your special someone. Earrings $3,095. Necklace $4,450. Wallace-Burke Fine Jewelry & Collectibles. 1811 29th Ave S, Homewood. 205.874.1044. wallaceburke.com
33. Raggio MD Antioxidant Serum 20-Percent Vitamin C + E Complex
The “non-negotiable” regarding advanced skincare, featuring a potent, 20-percent Vitamin C antioxidant complex, this serum brightens your complexion, reduces wrinkles and supports your skin’s overall vibrancy—a patient favorite in the Raggio MD Skincare portfolio. $152. Raggio MD Facial Plastic Surgery. 1920 Huntington Rd, Homewood. 659.272.0092. raggiomd.com
34. Edgar’s Holiday Gift Basket
Edgar’s holiday gift baskets are a “sweet” option for your loved ones this season. $20-$145. Edgar’s Bakery. Locations in Pelham, Birmingham, Hoover, Trussville, Huntsville and Tuscaloosa. edgarsbakery.com.
35. Zents Exfoliation Duo
Discover spa-worthy skin with this at-home exfoliation duo. To polish like the pros, spritz a thick layer of body oil on dry skin and massage a generous amount of polish all over the body in an upward, circular motion. Rinse in the shower to reveal baby soft, glowing skin. $89. Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa. 4000 Grand Ave, Hoover. 205.949.3041. rtjspatrail.com/spa/ the-spa-at-ross-bridge
36. Locally-Made Birdhouses
These locally-crafted wooden birdhouses, inspired by charming churches and gingerbread houses, make the perfect gift for nature lovers. Handcrafted with care, they add a decorative touch to any garden while providing a cozy home for birds. $79.99. Cedar Creek Nursery. 2979 Hwy 119, Montevallo. 205.665.5237. cedarcreeknursery.com
37. Home Decor
Unique home decor pieces perfect for any style, including coffee-themed accents, farmhouse charm and religiousinspired designs. Thoughtfully curated, these items make wonderful gifts that add personality and warmth to any living space. Prices Vary. Montevallo Drug. 3990 Hwy 25, Montevallo. 205.665.1261. montevallo-drug.com
38. Craftsman Ratchet Sets
The Craftsman ratchet set is a perfect gift for DIY-enthusiasts and professionals alike. With durable, high-quality tools, this set offers versatility and precision for any project, making it a must-have for every toolbox. $28.99. ACE Hardware. 4004 Hwy 25, Montevallo. 205.917.9576. acehardware.com
39. Holiday Wreaths
Add a personal touch to your holiday decor with a custom wreath. Handcrafted with care, each wreath is designed to reflect your style, featuring greenery, festive accents and unique details perfect for celebrating the season. Prices Vary. The Flower Shop. 981 Island St, Montevallo. 205.665.1232. theflowershopmontevallo.com
40. One-of-a-Kind Fine Art
Shop a stunning selection of handmade ceramics, pottery, woodworking, paintings, photography, jewelry and more. Each piece is crafted by talented artisans, making it the perfect place to find unique, meaningful gifts for any occasion. Prices Vary. Blue Phrog Gallery. 955 Main St, Montevallo. 205.665.3766. bluephroggallery.com
41. Vintage Jewelry and Accessories
A stunning selection of vintage, fine and custom jewelry and unique accessories. Enjoy free gift wrapping, and take advantage of Wendy’s expert consulting services to find the perfect gift for anyone on your list. Prices Vary. The Jewelry Lady. 619 Main St, Montevallo.
42. Coffee, Wine and More
Surprise someone special with premium wine, locallyroasted June Coffee, Medders Family Farm Peanut Butter, Lemon Moon Tea or Meri Moon merchandise. Can’t decide? Gift cards are available as well. Prices Vary. Meri Moon. 618 Main St, Montevallo. 205.476.8052. Follow us on Facebook.
43. Holiday Desserts
Wow the guests at your gatherings with pound cake, cupcakes or classic cake flavors. Custom desserts will be the star of every holiday party. Prices Vary. Creations Galore and Moore. 8261 Hwy 31, Calera. 205.690.8399. creationsgaloreandmoore.com
44. Games and Gaming Accessories
Your quest awaits at ROE Hobby. From card and family games to tabletop adventures, figurines and gaming accessories, there’s something for every fan. Grab a snack and drink from the bar, and host your tabletop games in our rentable rooms. Prices Vary. ROE Hobby. 10870 Hwy 25, Calera. 205.319.7310. facebook.com/ ROEHobby
45. Locally-Roasted Coffees
Explore our locally-roasted coffee, featuring both whole beans and K-Cup pods. With a variety of rich and flavorful blends, you’ll find the perfect choice for any coffee enthusiast, no matter how they brew. $14.99. Adventurer’s Coffee Co. 10874 Hwy 25, Calera. 205.690.8945. adventurerscoffee.co
46. Northwest Naturals Functional Toppers Pet Food Topping
These meal toppers add flavor, fun and nutrition to your pet’s diet. Sprinkle or spoon it over kibble or canned food to add extra flavor that dogs and cats love! Suitable for all sizes and breeds. $11.99-$18.99. Fuzzy Buttz Pet Supply. 8274 Hwy 31, Calera. 205.690.8332. fuzzybuttzpetsupply.com
47. Gym Membership Pass
Give the gift of fitness with a one-month membership to The Garage. Perfect for all skill levels, this membership includes classes that improve strength, endurance and confidence while offering a fun and empowering workout experience. $79.99-$89.99. The Garage Kickboxing. 10864 Hwy 25, Calera. 205.690.8087. garagekickboxing.com
48. Soaps and Skincare Products
Delightfully-scented, plant-based soaps and skincare products that are handmade daily in our local shops/ makeries make wonderful gifts! Our artisan soap bars, bath bombs, shower oils, body butters, body scrubs, laundry soaps, scent boosters and home fragrances all smell wonderful! $3-$59. Buff City Soap. Multiple locations. See ad for details. buffcitysoap.com
49. Stressless Recliner
Indulge yourself or someone else this holiday season with a Stressless Recliner. These unique recliners provide a sleek design and a comfort level that is unmatched. Recliners are available in a variety of sizes, colors and designs. $3,395. Scandinavian Design Gallery. 3075 John Hawkins Pkwy, Hoover. 205.985.4507. scandesigngallery.com
50. enewton Bracelets
This gold-filled jewelry is “worry-free wear,” which means you can sweat, shower and sleep in it. We have lots of options to choose from such as gold, silver and different color options. Visit us in store and online to find the best holiday gifting selection. $16-$125. Wrapsody. Locations in Hoover, Homewood, Trussville, Auburn and Madison. 205.989.7277. shopwrapsody.com
The Shelby County Chamber
BUSINES S CONNECTI ONS
November/ December '24 Chamber Events
Nov. 5
Ambassador Work Group
11:30AM-1:00PM
The Shelby County Chamber
Nov. 6
Career Readiness Work Group
8:30AM - 9:30AM
The Shelby County Chamber
Nov. 6
Training Session with Kristine Sizemore 1:30PM-3:00PM Virtual via ZOOM
Nov. 6
Small Business Work Group 4:00PM-5:00PM
The Shelby County Chamber
Nov. 7
Governmental Affairs Work Group 8:30AM - 9:30AM
Sain Associates - HWY280
Nov. 13
Women’s Business Council 11:30AM-1:00PM Oak Mountain Brewing Company
Nov. 14
Go & Grow Workshop 11:30AM-1:00PM
The Shelby County Chamber
Nov. 19
Quarterly Investor Reception
11:30AM-1:00PM
Chelsea Community Center
Dec. 1
Ambassador Work Group 11:30AM-1:00PM
The Shelby County Chamber
Go & Grow Workshop
“How to Grow A Successful Business”
The workshop, facilitated by the Chamber’s Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Michael Smith, will be on Thursday, Nov. 14 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Chamber. The cost to attend is $10 per person for Chamber investors or $20 for “future” investors. Register by emailing Karen Williams at karen@shelbychamber.org or by calling 205-663-4542, ext. 107. You can also register online at shelbychamber.org.
Presenting Sponsor
Feel the Cheer of the Holiday Season at Meri Moon on Dec. 17 Chamber Holiday Business After Hours
The Montevallo Chamber of Commerce and The Shelby County Chamber are collaborating on a Holiday Chamber Business After Hours event to celebrate the holiday season with you! Meri Moon is located at 618 Main St, Montevallo, AL 35115. Bring plenty of business cards, and come ready to make some serious business contacts from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Reservations are required, so please register via email to jordan@shelbychamber.org or call 205-663-4542. Reservations can also be made online at shelbychamber.org. Please make yours by noon on Dec. 16.
Leadership Development Session with Kristine Sizemore
Join us for the Forward Shelby Chamber Leadership Development Session on Nov. 6 from 1:30 -3 p.m., for an interactive goal setting session to finish 2024 strong and lay the foundations for success in 2025.
This session is for leaders, as well as salespeople, service and operations. Bring your specific key performance objectives or rocks to the session.
Quarterly Investor Reception
Is Your Organization Taking Full Advantage of Your Chamber Investor Benefits?
Join us on Nov. 19 for The Shelby County Chamber’s Quarterly Investor Reception.
Yes, there is such a thing as a free lunch, particularly on Nov. 19! We invite you to join your fellow investors and Chamber staff for some business networking and learning about how to get the most out of your investment. Whether your business is a new or long-time investor, make arrange-
ments to join us from 11:30 a.m.1 p.m. at the Chelsea Community Center to ensure you and your colleagues are getting the most out of your yearly contribution.
All guests will get a free lunch. Reservations are required, and space is limited, so please contact the Chamber at jordan@ shelbychamber.org or at 205-663-4542 to register. Reservations are requested by noon on Monday, Nov. 18.
Chamber’s 27th Annual Prayer Breakfast –
Nov. 26
Thanksgiving is the time of year for fellowship and celebration as we pause to give thanks for our many blessings and reflect on what’s truly important in life. We hope you’ll take time on Nov. 26 to join us for the Chamber’s 27th Annual Prayer Breakfast (7:30-9 a.m.) at the Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena, 500 Amphitheater Road, Pelham. Reservations are required by noon on Friday, Nov. 22 to assist with proper planning and catering. The investment for this program is $25 for Chamber investors or $35 for future investors. Register online or call the Chamber at 205-663-4542.
Dec. 3
Shelby County All Star Awards Luncheon 11:30AM-1:00PM
Grande Hall at Old Mill Square
Dec. 4
Career Readiness Work Group 8:30AM-9:30AM The Shelby County Chamber
Dec. 4
Small Business Work Group 4:00PM-5:00PM
The Shelby County Chamber
Dec. 5
“Annual Diamond Awards” 11:30AM-1:00PM
Grande Hall at Old Mill Square
Dec. 9
Women’s Business Council 11:30AM-1:00PM
Chelsea Community Center
Dec. 11
Women’s Business Council 11:30AM-1:00PM Corbin Farms Winery
Dec. 12
Governmental Affairs Work Group 8:30AM-9:30AM Sain Associates - HWY280
Dec. 17
Chamber Holiday After Hours with Montevallo Chamber 5:30PM-7:30PM Meri Moon - Montevallo
Dec. 26
27th Annual Prayer Breakfast 7:30AM-9:00AM
Pelham Civic Complex & Ice Arena
For information on Chamber work groups and how to get involved, visit shelbychamber.org or email info@ shelbychamber.org.
2024 Ambassadors
Charmaine DyeClosettec, Inc. & Van Gogh Window Designs
Cindy Edmunds - ARC Realty
Daniel LoganEdward Jones
Dawn Carden - First US Bank - Calera
Denise Grissom -Grissom Realty GroupERA King
Mark Teachman
Melissa Dixon - CDI Janitorial Services
Niki Mathews - Alabama Credit Union
Rhett McCreightShelby County Newsmedia, Inc.
Rob Gerchow - ServPro Birmingham
Sam MarsingillAmFirst
Chamber’s “CoffeeNET” Heads to 280
Be sure to mark your calendar for Wednesday, Nov. 20, and join The Shelby County Chamber for a CoffeeNET event at Synovus – Inverness Corners Branch at 102 Inverness Corners, Birmingham, AL 35242.
This morning meeting, held from 8:309:30 a.m., is designed for investors to enjoy networking, coffee and light refreshments, all before heading to the office. CoffeeNET events are a great way to make new business contacts, so bring plenty of business cards.
There is no cost to attend; however, reservations are requested by noon on Monday, Nov. 18 to assist in preparation. Please contact The Shelby County Chamber by phone at 205-663-4542 or register at jordan@shelbychamber.org.
Celebrating Growth
All In Care - Alabaster
Sponsored by
Calera Courtyard Alley Activation
City of Calera Playground
Hit Different Barbeque & Grill - Pelham
LifeSouth Community Blood Centers
Neuens Diagnostics Inc. - Pelham
South Shelby Early Learning - Calera
Find Us Online
Sign up for our weekly newsletter | Access our member directory
2024 Board of Directors
As of 7/18/24
OFFICERS
(Executive Committee)
Chamber Chair
April Harry Warren, Averett, LLC
Chair-Elect
Kevin Morris
America’s First Federal Credit Union
Vice Chair, Business Development & Support
Rux Bentley
Rux Carter Insurance
Vice Chair, Communications & Marketing
Jeff Purvis
A. C. Legg, Inc.
Vice Chair, Community & Career Development
Amiee Mellon University of Montevallo
Vice Chair, Finance & Administration
John Collier Trustmark Bank
Vice Chair, Governmental Affairs
Melissa Dixon
CDI Janitorial Services
Vice Chair, Investor Relations
Keith Brown
Jefferson State Community College
Immediate Past Chair
Mechelle Wilder ARC Realty
DIRECTORS
Traci Fox T Fox SalonSpa Aveda
William Norwood People’s Bank of Alabama
Anna Catherine Roberson Alabama Power Company
Benji Sawyer Sawyer Solutions, LLC
Chad Scroggins
Shelby County
Teresa Vick Regions
Holly Dean Shelby Baptist Medical Center
Meribeth Gilbert McLeod Software
Daniel Morgan Express Employment Professionals
Nedra Moore Creations Galore and Moore
Chris Stricklin Dunn Companies
Chris Wilder Sealing Equipment Products Company
Josh Coker Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama
Julie Godfrey Shelby County Schools
Scott Gossett Spire Alabama
Wade Kallaher
Birmingham Coca Cola Bottling Company
Keith Strickland Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood
Terri Williams AT&T - Alabama
Tampia Anderson The Arc of Shelby County
Ken Delgreco Urban Home Market
Alec Etheredge Shelby County Newsmedia, Inc.
Micah McLaughlin Irons Media Group
Brian L. Wilson EBSCO Industries, Inc.
The Hon. Brian Puckett (Ex-Officio, SCMA) City of Helena
Amy Sturdivant (Ex-Officio) 58 INC
New Investors
(August 10 - September 13, 2024)
uCroswell Counseling Services, LLC
uMichelle Lagle Hicks, eXp Realty, LLC
uThe Lotus Catfe
uTherapySouth Alabaster Hwy 119
uCharlene Smith Agency, Farmers Insurance uWildcat Construction uE&C Creations Holiday Shop
Your Chamber at work
(August 10 – September 13, 2024)
- Responded to 54 requests for business and community information
- Promoting Chamber investors as well as Chamber and community events through the following social media outlets:
- WBC Facebook: 555 “followers” and 6 “new followers”
Who’s Who
of Shelby County Businesses
Through their voluntary investment, these chamber investors support a program of work designed to make Shelby County an even better place to live and do business. The Chamber considers these organizations to be the most community-minded and successful businesses in Shelby County and strongly encourages you to do business with them.
The Shelby County Chamber Who’s Who Directory consists of Investors at the “Sustaining Level” or higher. For our complete investor list, please visit shelbychamber.org.
Morgan Creek Vineyards (205) 672-2053 www.morgancreekwinery.com
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Central Alabama Partnership for Training & Employment (CAPTE) (205) 325-4880 www.mycapte.org/
Central Six Alabama Works! (205) 719-3227 www.CentralSix.org
The Onin Group (205) 298-7233 www.oningroup.com
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED
Students returned to Alabaster City Schools for the first day of the 2024-25 school year on Thursday, Aug. 8.
1. Baylee, Hayden, Harper and Max Carter
2. Bailey and Brooks Baker
3. Charlee and Isabella
4. Joseph Martinez
5. Emma Stokesbary
6. Lewis Pearson
7. Brayden (Bolgar) Plumb
8. Sawyer and Sadie Connelly
9. Officer Parker
BACK TO SCHOOL BASH
PHOTOS BY ANDREW
SIMONSON
Helena Elementary School hosted a back-to-school bash with food trucks, balloons and fun on Friday, Aug. 9.
1. Kristen Bell with Jason and Laura Rupert
2. Nixon and Jeff Buchanan
3. Brandon, Emily and Sawyer Powell
4. Riley, Millie and Nixon
5. West Cherry
6. DeMarcus Rodgers
7. Vicki and Lily McDaniel
HUSKY DAY
PHOTOS BY MACKENZEE SIMMS
Brimming with team spirit, the community gathered at Helena High School to celebrate the start of fall sports at this year’s Husky Day on Thursday, Aug. 15.
1. Leigh and Hannah Kervin
2. Casey, Jennifer and Isla Taylor
3. Marcus, Shaun and Markson Jones
4. The Hope family
5. Whitney Gaut and Kaitlyn Young
6. Mariah, Alana and Ava McClain
7. The Bayliss family
UNWRAP RELAXATION THIS SEASON.
This holiday season, let your loved ones immerse themselves in a blissful retreat of rejuvenation and renewal. Give the gift of pure serenity with a gift card from the Spa at Ross Bridge. Whether it’s a soothing massage, revitalizing facial, or a full day of indulgence, our treatments o er a luxurious escape into tranquility, perfect for every special person on your list—or a treat for yourself.
GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE NOW AT RTJSPATRAIL.COM .
OLD BAKER FARM
PHOTOS BY RACHEL RAIFORD
Families came out to enjoy another wonderful end to the summer season at Old Baker Farm on Friday, Aug. 16.
1. Casey and Joanna Entrekin
2. Whitney Martin and Charley Jones
3. Addie Robinson and Jacob Mann
4. Grayson Hollis and Isabella Green
5. Judit Bogyos and Iaszlo Kerek
6. Dawn Gorman and Alesha Bailey
7. Samantha Baucom, Anna Klingenbeck and Leah Harry
8. Lisa Nicholson with Piper, Jasper and Alexandria Price
ALABASTER HEALTH FAIR
BY NOAH WORTHAM
Alabaster residents took advantage of the opportunity to learn about managing their health and met with local medical professionals and organizations during the sixth annual Alabaster Health Fair on Aug. 17.
1. Sanchez Tanniehill and Nick Simmons
2. Bryant Culpepper and Christina Tatum
3. Justin Brown and Vernon Horst
4. Shelby Baptist Medical Center Team
5. Becky, Joel and Bristol Halechko
6. Casey Nowell and Brett Tucker
7. Milly Murphre, Bella Hickey and Cherie Dobson
8. Susan Connell and Katrina Mullins
PHOTOS
STATE OF OUR SCHOOLS LUNCHEON
BY NOAH WORTHAM
Local superintendents gave an update on the county’s school systems during The Shelby County Chamber’s annual “State of Our Schools” luncheon on Wednesday, Aug. 28.
1. Kyle Cunningham and Lavelle Noblitt
2. Jessica Averett and Tatum Barnhill
3. Angie Kelly, Danielle Collar and Elise Hearn
4. Keith Brown, Kirk Mancer and David Bobo
5. Charissa Cole and Jamelia Hayes
6. Carole Lyons, Bethany Ivey and Jeannine Lyons
7. Angie McCord and Camren Berrey
8. Derek Henderson, David Bobo and Adam Moseley
9. Michelle and Scott Brakefield with Brian Binzer
PHOTOS
THE TINGLEWOOD FESTIVAL
BY ANNA GRACE MOORE
On Saturday, Sept. 7 at Orr Park, the Tinglewood Festival took place, drawing crowds of hundreds for its annual events such as its wood carving contest, wooden boat race, vintage automobile show, live music, food trucks and more.
1. Scott and April Thrasher
2. Howard Stamps
3. Gerald Stamps
4. The Fasanello, Hipps and Neighbors families
5. Libby Grace and Brian Bohanan
6. Jennifer Tidwell and Courtney Bennett
7. Stephanie and Gamaliel Benitez
8. Essie Ebrahimi
PHOTOS
SHELBY COUNTY SHOWCASE OF BANDS
PHOTOS BY NOAH WORTHAM
On Tuesday, Sept. 10 at Heardmont Park, Oak Mountain High School hosted the annual Shelby County Showcase of Bands, which features the halftime performances of Shelby County Schools’ high school bands.
1. Isaiah Henderson, James Weibelt, Ethan Honaker and Morgan Epperson
2. Grant Butterfield and Harrison Whisenant
3. Grier Feldman and Morgan Lee
4. Morgan Goddard, Hannah Gibbs and Rachel White
5. Emma Haynes, Sophia Doreen, Andrew Ripple and Zoe Gandy
6. Brieanna Davis and Kinsley Perkins
7. London Norwood and Alyssa Daugherty
8. Tara Sims, Gabby Tetreault and Kearstynn Jones
Vestavia Hills Shares
The Vestavia Hills Shares card is a fundraiser partnered between the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce and VHCS Arts and Athletics groups and teams. The participating businesses are offering great deals for 10 months!
Purchase a card for only $30 to support your favorite student or club!
Cards are valid August 5, 2024-May 31, 2025.
Sponsors:
SCAN TO PURCHASE!
You can save the card to your phone wallet or pick up a physical card from the Chamber.
Participating Businesses:
American Kolache Bandwagon Birmingham School of Music Biscuit Love Blue Willow
Bridgett Glasgow-ERA King Real Estate Bruster’s Real Ice Cream Cafe Iz Cahaba Nutrition Cartridge World Clover + Bee Darnell’s Fun Stuff Davenport's Pizza Dear Emmaline Family Medical Supply Fleet Feet Birmingham
GLAM Beauty Boutique HaMi Boutique HOTWORX Vestavia Hills Jeremiah’s Italian Ice of Vestavia Leaf & Petal Little Soles Minette Boutique McDonald’s Vestavia Hills Mia Moda MONOGRAMS PLUS Mudtown Eat & Drink Orangetheory Fitness Vestavia Hills Relax The Back Rocky Ridge Drug Co. Rocky Ridge Hardware rolls bakery Romeo's Sporting Goods Salon Summit Six16 Creative Slice Stone Pizza and Brewhouse Smoothie King #1365, LLC Taco Mama Tanology Spray Tan & Beauty Bar Taziki's The Elinor The Lili Pad & GiGi’s The Retreat Day Spa
The Ridge The Smocking Bird The Standard Troup's Pizza Vestavia Bowl Vestavia Nails Village Dermatology Waldo’s Chicken and Beer
Bama Concrete Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic 4 Years Minimum Experience. CDL Preferred. Competitive Pay. Great Benefits. Apply in person: 2180 Hwy 87 Alabaster, 35007
Now Hiring For Utility Positions Starting pay $15.14/hour Must be able to pass background screen. Please apply at: www. bc.com
BRIAN’S TREE SERVICE•TREES CUT FROM THE TOP DOWN!•SAFE TREE REMOVAL IN CONFINED AREAS!•STUMP GRINDING! • GENERAL LIABILITY•WORKERS COMP WWW. BRIANSTREE.COM 205-281-2427
Central Alabma Wellness Mental Health Services Office locations in Calera, Clanton, Pelham, and 280! 205-651-0077 Visit our website to learn more centralalbama wellness.org
Shelby County Schools Substitute Teachers Limitless opportunities for passionate people!
•Free pre-hire training •Paid orientation
•Ongoing professional development •Steady, yet flexible, work •Weekly pay •Your preference of schools Contact
Anne Gamble:O: 205.682.7062 M: 205.532.1122 anne. gamble@kellyservices. com
Marble Valley Manor.
Affordable 1 and 2 Bedroom Apartments for Elderly & Disabled. Many on-site services! 2115 Motes Rd, Sylacauga. 256245-6500 •TDD#s: 800-548-2547(V) •800-548-2546(T/A). Office Hours: MonFri, 8am-4pm. Equal Opportunity Provider/ Employer
maintenance, submits performance reports. Skills:-Automotive Plant Experience -Experience as Production Supervisor or similar role -Experience with manufacturing machinery and tools -Advanced skills in MS Office -High School Diploma; Degree in a technical, engineering or relevant field will be an advantage Benefits: PTO, 401k w/ match, Health/Dental/ Vision insurance, employee assistance, referral program, tuition reimbursement 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044
Monday–Thursday Responsibilities: •Be an effective Supervisor in a participative work environment •Ensure all Finishing Dept. goals and improvement objectives are accomplished per our commitments •Ability to optimize utilization of personnel, equipment, material, and space to meet OMF’s daily, monthly and annual targets. Will be evaluated regularly on ability to continuously improve in all areas of responsibility. 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044
Responsible for maintenance of O-Flex facilities & equipment across all lines & departments. Oversight of preventative maintenance programs. Coordinates continuous improvement activities with Maintenance Team Leader. Starting pay $19-$28 BOE 725 Keystone Drive Clanton, Al 35044
Security Guard for Gated Community in North Shelby County Full-time or Part-time. Must have pistol permit. Call Brittany 205-991-4653
Become a Dental Assistant in ONLY 8 WEEKS! Please visit our website capstonedental assisting.com or call (205)561-8118 and get your career started!
Tax Advisor, International Tax and Transaction Tax Services (International Corporate Tax Advisory) (Senior) (Multiple Positions), Ernst & Young U.S. LLP, Birmingham, AL. Apply online, go to:ey. com/en_us/careers and click on “Careers - Job Search”, then “SearchJobs”(Job Number - 1472113).
ETS Restorations & Tree Service “From street to walls, we do it all” •Retaining Walls •Concrete Work •Demolition
•Landscaping •Tree Removal •Tree Trimming •Bobcat Work •Hardscapes •Hauling FREE ESTIMATES!!! CALL NOW (205)209-7787 (205)683-3257
South Pointe Development 203 Shiloh Creek Drive Calera, AL 35040
Now Hiring! Termite Treaters and Inspectors Work with a great local company, in business for over 50 years. BC/ BS insurance, 401k, opportunities available. No experience required Must have a good driving record and be able to pass drug screen. Email to facsmith@charter.net or call 205-369-6250
Vulcan Termite and Pest Control
Wanted Maintenance/ Handyman to assist with vehicle and land upkeep. Must pass background & drug test, have reliable transportation, be able to drive a manual transmission and be willing to work. Apply in person at 115 Commerce Drive Pelham, AL 35124
Vulcan Termite and Pest Control
MY SHELBY COUNTY
DAVID NOLEN
Shelby County Historical Society Museum & Archives Board President
Fellowship in Community
Shelby County Events
We have many enjoyable events in Shelby County including Liberty Day, Discover Shelby Fest, Fall Festival at the Shelby Ironworks Historic Park and the Buck Creek Festival. My favorite event has to be the Independence Day celebration at The American Village. I enjoy the fireworks show and the music, as well as visiting the historic buildings and interacting with the period reenactors.
Sentimental Spots
Shelby County Arts Council
My Mother, Marjorie Bentley Nolen, was an artist, mainly in watercolor painting. She died in 2009, but a year before she died, she had a showing of her artwork in the arts council building. One of her pieces of art now hangs permanently in the conference room of the Shelby County Arts Council.
Eat Local
Lloyd’s Restaurant
I miss Lloyd’s Restaurant on Highway 280 since it closed. My favorite dish from Lloyd’s, the Hamburger Steak, is no longer available to me. That, along with a baked potato and their fresh salad, was a great meal. Growing up in Columbiana in the 1950s and 1960s, I remember when Lloyd’s was located in Chelsea and owned by Lloyd Chesser.
Preserving Shelby County History
Shelby County Historical Society
Serving as president of the Shelby County Historical Society offers me the opportunity to do something that I really enjoy. On some occasions when I have worked at the museum and archives, I have been able to help someone who has come in to research their Shelby County families. The Shelby County Historical Society recently celebrated its 50th anniversary and recognized those individuals who worked to organize the society and its museum.
Get Outdoors
Oak Mountain State Park
There are so many great trails in the park for hikers and mountain bikers as well as lakes for fishing and water sports. I enjoy the trails because I can choose a fairly easy trail or one that is more strenuous. Most all of them will take me to beautiful vistas. This facility greatly enhances the quality of life in Shelby County.
